I'm back with another foodie review! Thrive Market has been gaining popularity online, mainly on YouTube, so I decided to make a purchase to see what the deal is with this grocery service. I bought this box with my own money and everything mentioned below is 100% honest and personal to my experience with Thrive Market. I'm going to break down my review in easy and precise points.
Thrive Market is an online grocery store that offers competitive pricing and a curated shopping experience based on your lifestyle. Their mission encourages good quality and environmentally friendly groceries at a lower price than your average grocery store.
What do they offer?
Because it’s a grocery service, there’s no limit to how much you buy or what is included in the package. Free shipping kicks in at $49.
Their groceries are extensive:
Thrive Market brand goods
Food, Meat, Seafood
Wine
Vitamins & Supplements
Beauty & Skincare
Children, Home, & Pet Items
There is an annual $59.95 membership fee that they will credit you in difference if you don’t save more than that in the year (which implies they’re sure you’ll save more). If you want extra savings, click here for 25% off your first order.
Speaking of savings, they offer a highly competitive price on items which leads you to saving money in general.
The more you buy, the more “Thrive Cash” you earn, which is essentially reward dollars to use for future purchases. And the more you buy in bulk, the more rewards unlock. So if you spend $50 at a time, they will offer you a free sample of your choice! If you spend more, the rewards keep adding.
Perks don’t stop there. You can even earn “Thrive Cash” for simply leaving reviews on items you purchased.
Lastly, they offer weekly curated deals that range from coupons to free shipping and more.
Basics
Packaging: They use all recyclable packaging. There was no insulation in my box, but that’s because I purchased shelf-stable items. There’s an invoice sheet to easily account for your items. From bottles and jars to bags and cans, nothing was damaged in the packaging they used.
Product Availability: There is a LOT on this website. You’re not going to find fresh fruit and vegetables, but there’s a large variety of fun, unique, and quality shelf-stable items. I’m very impressed with selections that are not food related, though I did not purchase anything aside from food.
Easy to use? Thrive Market has an incredible website/app. The filters make it easy to find exactly what you need and the design makes it easy to navigate. Reordering, looking at past orders, and seeing favorite items is seamless. I genuinely have a good time scrolling on the site, which is something rare (or impossible) to find in the grocery world. Let’s be honest.
Savings: There are legit savings happening here. There’s a hit or miss on some products, which is to be expected. Overall, nearly everything I purchased on Thrive Market has been cheaper than my local grocery or Target.
Packaging: They use all recyclable packaging. There was no insulation in my box, but that’s because I purchased shelf-stable items. There’s an invoice sheet to easily account for your items. From bottles and jars to bags and cans, nothing was damaged in the packaging they used.
Product Availability: There is a LOT on this website. You’re not going to find fresh fruit and vegetables, but there’s a large variety of fun, unique, and quality shelf-stable items. I’m very impressed with selections that are not food related, though I did not purchase anything aside from food.
Easy to use? Thrive Market has an incredible website/app. The filters make it easy to find exactly what you need and the design makes it easy to navigate. Reordering, looking at past orders, and seeing favorite items is seamless. I genuinely have a good time scrolling on the site, which is something rare (or impossible) to find in the grocery world. Let’s be honest.
Savings: There are legit savings happening here. There’s a hit or miss on some products, which is to be expected. Overall, nearly everything I purchased on Thrive Market has been cheaper than my local grocery or Target.
Don't forget that you can get an extra 25% off here!
Let’s talk groceries! I’m only going to review specific Thrive Market brand items, because other items simply wouldn’t apply to a review of Thrive Market.
Organic Canned Pumpkin
Very basic and delicious pumpkin! I used it as a base for soup and it came out fantastic. Price: $1.99
Vegan Parmesan Style Cheese Alternative
This is an impressive cheese alternative. I’d say one of my favorites, honestly. I cannot tell it’s not vegan. I use it on top of pizzas and pastas. Price: $3.74
Vegan Mayonnaise
For sure a mayo-tasting mayo! I use it for tofu egg salad and burgers. I cannot tell the difference from actual mayo and I love the spout for easy pouring. I will say it’s a bit pricier for the amount in the bag but it’s still cheaper than most competitive vegan mayos. Price: $5.24
Value Breakdown
I ordered a total of 15 items for $39, plus a free sample! This is not typical - they were offering a Black Friday sale which gave me extra earnings. But that being said, Thrive Market tracks my savings and estimated that I saved $40 on this order. Doing the math, that sounds about right! Especially living in an urban area like NYC. You’ll need to check their pricing and see if the discounts are equal to what prices are like in your area.
Make sure to save an extra 25% off your first order if you're interested in trying Thrive Market.
Verdict
This is a fantastic grocery service unlike any other. The prices are truly dependant on your area, but for me it offers great deals. If you look at the Thrive Cash, weekly curated sales, extremely convenient navigation, quality items, and environmentally friendly packaging, there’s no question Thrive Market is a great tool and place to shop. No other grocery store will offer that many rewards. For that, I highly recommend checking Thrive Market out!
Verdict
This is a fantastic grocery service unlike any other. The prices are truly dependant on your area, but for me it offers great deals. If you look at the Thrive Cash, weekly curated sales, extremely convenient navigation, quality items, and environmentally friendly packaging, there’s no question Thrive Market is a great tool and place to shop. No other grocery store will offer that many rewards. For that, I highly recommend checking Thrive Market out!
Because I went through a rough time at the end of 2019, it felt right to set goals going into 2020. I'm not the type of person to create goals at the start of a new year, but this time I need to.
Honesty ramble: I have been struggling with creativity, balance, and holding myself accountable for the million things I am responsible for. I admit that I set standards way too high and I could easily pull back to make things easier for myself. But it's not the kind of person I am. It's not going to help my self-confidence. And I have the drive to keep going! I just need to get back into a steady stream.
I am setting three goals. Just three. This is most practical for me and I'm not trying to set myself up for disaster, ya feel me?
Below is a list of my goals and potential plans to execute them. If you're sharing any of my goals, let's do this together! I'm going to add a group collaboration call under each goal. Please do reach out and comment/DM on Instagram/chat with me anywhere so we can support each other.
Execution Plan: We're cutting costs by not going out as often. We used to go out to eat/drink nearly every day. We plan to cut that to 1-2x a week at most. We're also saving by comparing costs before making any purchases.
Predicted Result: Money will go mainly to groceries and social time will be cut down significantly. Which is what I need for my health, honestly!
Let's Team Up!
If you're trying to save money in 2020, let's chat. We can support each other by using a hashtag or group chat.
Execution Plan: I need to stop stressing about work! And I need to spend less time there. I'll use my bullet journal to section days in three parts so I can schedule work, Pies n' Prose, and personal goals equally. I'm going to be strict about not letting work take over. Be strong, Sarah!
Predicted Result: I will initially panic about work not getting done, but eventually I will care less. I will go home earlier, which is needed. It'll free time up for Pies n' Prose, which will reopen my creative flow! And finally, I can just relax during any free time.
Let's Team Up!
If you're trying to create balance or work less in 2020, let's chat. We can support each other by using a hashtag or group chat.
Execution Plan: The first step is to cut out red meat, which I've done already! Next, lean meats, fish, and eggs. Finally, CHEESE. All the while, I'll be looking for satisfying alternatives and adding lots of vegetables to my meals. I'm currently using apps to help with food diary entries and recipes.
Predicted Result: Eventually, I will become vegan! This is my hope. It may take several years, but it's okay. I'm excited about this journey!
Let's Team Up!
If you're trying to go vegan/plant-based in 2020, let's chat. We can support each other by using a hashtag or group chat. I've also started a Pinterest board for this!
Not gonna lie, this was more personal than expected. But I really wanted to share my goals and struggles. I think it's important to be open with you about why I've gone silent at the end of 2019. I also think this is the best time to support each other with the arrival of a new DECADE. I love ya'll so much. If you're struggling or working on any goals and need encouragement, please reach out. I'm here for you as much as you're here for me. Happy New Year, friends.
(p.s. I've got new videos coming to YouTube! The first being a fun Q&A. If you've got questions about 2020 goals or anything else, send them over!)
Honesty ramble: I have been struggling with creativity, balance, and holding myself accountable for the million things I am responsible for. I admit that I set standards way too high and I could easily pull back to make things easier for myself. But it's not the kind of person I am. It's not going to help my self-confidence. And I have the drive to keep going! I just need to get back into a steady stream.
I am setting three goals. Just three. This is most practical for me and I'm not trying to set myself up for disaster, ya feel me?
Below is a list of my goals and potential plans to execute them. If you're sharing any of my goals, let's do this together! I'm going to add a group collaboration call under each goal. Please do reach out and comment/DM on Instagram/chat with me anywhere so we can support each other.
Save Money
Why: This is a common goal but I'm really focusing on it this year! We need a new car, mainly. Our current car is dying a slow death. I am also thinking of a career shift and I'd like to have some financial security in case I decide to make that shift.Execution Plan: We're cutting costs by not going out as often. We used to go out to eat/drink nearly every day. We plan to cut that to 1-2x a week at most. We're also saving by comparing costs before making any purchases.
Predicted Result: Money will go mainly to groceries and social time will be cut down significantly. Which is what I need for my health, honestly!
Let's Team Up!
If you're trying to save money in 2020, let's chat. We can support each other by using a hashtag or group chat.
Regaining Balance
Why: I take work home. I stress about work. I neglect Pies n' Prose and downtime for work. I need my life to shift back to equal parts work, Pies n' Prose, and personal time.Execution Plan: I need to stop stressing about work! And I need to spend less time there. I'll use my bullet journal to section days in three parts so I can schedule work, Pies n' Prose, and personal goals equally. I'm going to be strict about not letting work take over. Be strong, Sarah!
Predicted Result: I will initially panic about work not getting done, but eventually I will care less. I will go home earlier, which is needed. It'll free time up for Pies n' Prose, which will reopen my creative flow! And finally, I can just relax during any free time.
Let's Team Up!
If you're trying to create balance or work less in 2020, let's chat. We can support each other by using a hashtag or group chat.
Going Plant-Based/Vegan
Why: For health and environmental reasons! I love my body and I love the planet. I want to treat them better.Execution Plan: The first step is to cut out red meat, which I've done already! Next, lean meats, fish, and eggs. Finally, CHEESE. All the while, I'll be looking for satisfying alternatives and adding lots of vegetables to my meals. I'm currently using apps to help with food diary entries and recipes.
Predicted Result: Eventually, I will become vegan! This is my hope. It may take several years, but it's okay. I'm excited about this journey!
Let's Team Up!
If you're trying to go vegan/plant-based in 2020, let's chat. We can support each other by using a hashtag or group chat. I've also started a Pinterest board for this!
Not gonna lie, this was more personal than expected. But I really wanted to share my goals and struggles. I think it's important to be open with you about why I've gone silent at the end of 2019. I also think this is the best time to support each other with the arrival of a new DECADE. I love ya'll so much. If you're struggling or working on any goals and need encouragement, please reach out. I'm here for you as much as you're here for me. Happy New Year, friends.
(p.s. I've got new videos coming to YouTube! The first being a fun Q&A. If you've got questions about 2020 goals or anything else, send them over!)
2019, what a whirlwind of a year. It started off slow, with me working from home, and immediately changed when I started working a 9-5. So if I could sum this year into one word, it would be "blur". I hope to change that in 2020 but let's look at my favorite captures from 2019 before we head into the new decade!
 |
| Officially purchased a camera to kickstart my YouTube channel! |
 |
| Only to find out that I'll be working full-time at Hachette Book Group. Lunch break. |
 |
| Yeah, this is the right workplace for me. |
 |
| Discovering my new favorite bagel spot. Utopia Bagels in Queens. |
 |
| Taking Logan for a walk! |
 |
| Actual mummies at a museum in Philadelphia. |
 |
| Why, yes! Yes, they are. |
 |
| Watermelon soju in Koreatown with work friends. |
 |
| R.I.P Indoor Herb Garden... You will be missed. |
 |
| Reading Harry Potter for the first time. Finished all 7 books in just 5 months! |
 |
| Foodie event hosted by a friend. One of my favorite nights of the summer. |
 |
| My contribution to our office baking competition - a peach upside-down rum cake. |
 |
| One of the coolest finds this year - a portable blender! |
 |
| Dragonfruit in our batch of free fruit we get every Tuesday at work. |
 |
| The famous Pier 39, amazing. |
 |
| I definitely played the Full House theme song while crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. |
 |
| Best lasagna I've ever had. The Italian Homemade Company in San Francisco. |
 |
| In-n-Out for the first time. Not bad! |
 |
| Pinball museum was one of my favorite spots in California. Especially loved the jukebox. |
 |
| Natural beauty. |
 |
| The launch of my Patreon! Such a special moment for Pies n' Prose. |
 |
| Incredible vegan fish sandwich at No5 in Queens. |
 |
| Oh hey! |
 |
| Annual pumpkin picking was a success. |
 |
| My go-to phone. |
 |
| Handsome Logan in his Halloween costume. |
 |
| I went all out for this year's Halloween party. |
 |
| Vegan brownies are now my favorite dessert ever. |
 |
| Logan in his Thanksgiving sweater. |
 |
| White Elephant! My contribution: Cold brew, Irish cream liqueur, and a mason jar. |
 |
| My favorite Christmas gift. A Goodful Aerogarden system. |
 |
| My Christmas contribution - chocolate coffee mascarpone tart. It was a hit! |
I want 2020 to be a complete shift. 2019 ended off in a bad place - I lost grip on planning, control, and maintaining balance in my life. The plan for 2020 (and I'll be blogging about it!) is to be strict with my goals instead of settling for easier situations. I can't wait to share the journey and spend the new decade with you!
I don't know about you, but I'm addicted to gift guides. I love nothing more than reading a list of carefully curated products that are awesome enough to gift others but also practical enough to gift myself. I'm just looking at it from all perspectives, okay?! My 2019 guide is a bit smaller than last year, but I promise that I've used and loved every item listed. Nothing here is sponsored! But there are affiliate links that are of no cost to you. Let's get into it, shall we?
1. The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle
This is one of the most entertaining books I've read in a long time. It's like Clue meets Shutter Island meets Agatha Christie meets Cabin in the Woods. Sounds intense and weird? That's about right. It's the perfect holiday break read, so this gift can immediately go into good use.
2. From the Page Vanilla & Coffee Candle
I appreciate the cute bookish label on this deliciously scented candle. Sometimes I just open the lid and take a huge whiff of aromatic coffee mixed with a hint of vanilla. Not an artificial vanilla, an actual depth of flavor vanilla. Yuuuum.
3. Frienda Rolling Ball Pens
When I say these don't smudge, I mean they DO! NOT! SMUDGE! Left-hander approved. Highlighter tested. And the ink flows smoothly like a high-end gel pen would (but without the high cost). They're officially my new favorite.
4. Koi Pocket Field Sketch Watercolor Set, 24
This is my go-to watercolor paints. Period. I strictly use this set because 1) it's fantastic quality, 2) it's compact enough for travel or easy cleanup, and 3) it's super affordable! I recommend it for novices and experienced artists alike.
5. Strathmore Watercolor Postcards
Anything small and minimal makes me happy. These cards are just that and also very durable! They can handle a lot of water for postcard-sized paper. Plus, I think finished pieces on postcards make for incredible gifts. A gift that keeps giving, yes?
6. Popbabies Portable Blender
This went semi-viral on my Instagram over the summer. Yes! It's a portable blender! Not a small blender that you keep at home and the top detaches into a bottle. The blender is literally PART OF THE BOTTLE. It's the perfect tool for busy people who want fresh (not refrigerated the day before) smoothies and can make it while at work or anywhere, really!
7. Veggie & Fruit To-Go Cup
This is a beautiful to-go cup. That was my impulse thought when buying this. But it's also so practical! I realized that I won't eat much fruit or veggies unless it's prepared beforehand. With this cup, I can do just that. Pack it to go and the strainer tool inside allows for washing produce on the go!
8. Bentoheaven Bento Box Bundle
If you work outside of home, you need bento boxes! Not only are they cute for packing lunches, but they're also designed to use the most out of a small space. This bundle comes with two boxes, utensils, a band to keep everything together, AND a drawstring bag. You need nothing more for a perfect work lunch!
9. Left Center Right Dice Game
Seriously, just get this game. It's cheap, it's fun as heck, and you're going to be the coolest person at any party! All you need to know about this game is that you roll the dice and move either left, center, or right. It's so simple, you can be wasted and play successfully. Let the fun ensue.
10. Arctic Fox Hair Dye
I've been using this dye on dark brown hair and it still shows pigment! Do you understand how amazing that is?! It's also vegan and built with conditioners, so it's safe for the earth and your hair. No bleach, no damage. It's great for having fun with hair!
11. Himawari 14.9" Backpack
This backpack is super affordable and one of the best quality bags I own. And the pockets! So. Many. Pockets. You really can't have enough, am I right? It's also really cute. Personally, I think it compares to some of the higher-end brands that look nearly the same but cost 3x more. But who wants to spend more money if you can get something similar for less?
Friends, this was a ton of fun! I hope you like my little list and that something here will soon become a gift for a loved one (or yourself let's be honest). Happy holidays and happy gifting!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Social Icons